Xiaolu Zhang
Present and future:Explore future lifestyles through speculative design
Abstract
This research project is intended to provide preliminary support for the exploration of future links between speculative design and modern lifestyle. In contemporary cities, the fast pace of life and the rapid elimination of materials make people increasingly towards excessive consumerism. However, with the help of new technology and new ideas, human beings have to rethink the theory that "less is more" and apply it to daily life. Viswanathan and George (2018) point out that consumerism in a market economy always promotes the idea that "more is better", which may lead to ecological overshoot. In this research project, minimalism will be pushed to a new way of life in the future. While minimalism is not a new concept, there is now plenty of evidence and resources to support the trend. The speculative design began to reflect on the conflict between human activity, economic development, and limited resources. And the success of technology derivative products needs the awakening of consumer consciousness. At the same time, this research project is reasonable speculation and exploration of the possibility of the minimalist lifestyle in the future, to reflect and discuss the relationship between human needs and consumption.Wright (2010) states that minimalism is a way of life that is re-prioritizing objects so that people can get rid of unnecessary things that do not add value to their lives - possessions, thoughts, relationships and activities. Hausen (2019) mentions minimalism shows that individuals in contemporary consumer culture can make their lives more meaningful and fulfilling by reducing consumption and focusing on intrinsic values. In the research process, this report discusses how speculative design can be used as a practice, and how speculative design can help people to rethink their future lifestyle. Besides, thinking about the role of human beings in the future lifestyle through design practice.